OXFORD City Stars have appointed Paul Gore as head coach until the end of the season.

The former MK Thunder player/coach got off to a winning start, as Stars beat Bracknell Hornets 6-4 on Saturday to secure the side’s place in the National League South Division 1 play-offs.

They were 30 seconds away from another win last night, but after being pegged back they went down to a 5-4 overtime defeat to Thunder at Oxpens.

He comes in following the resignation of Simon Anderson last month and will be assisted by Darren Elliott.

As part of a reshuffle, the latter has also been named head coach of the club’s junior section.

Gore, who had two spells playing for Stars, said: “I’m delighted to have joined the Oxford City Stars and I’m grateful for the opportunity.

“This is a great club and team and I’m looking forward to the challenge.

“As a coach I am strong on structure and organisation and have a positive outlook.

“My immediate priority is to galvanise the squad, organise the team and work towards finishing the season on a positive note.”

Club stalwart Elliott added: “I’m delighted to have been appointed as the head coach of the junior club.

“Developing our young players is a major passion for me and I’m really pleased to be able to commit to this role and to develop Oxford players of the future.”

Stars director Jo Mundy said: “Paul bought into our strategy for the club and understands the short-term challenge alongside the bigger picture.”